What are the common causes of upper left abdominal pain under the ribs. How can you differentiate between serious and mild conditions causing this discomfort. When should you seek immediate medical attention for pain in the upper left abdomen.

Understanding Upper Left Abdominal Pain: Location and Significance

Pain in the upper left abdomen under the ribs can be a cause for concern due to the vital organs located in this area. This region houses several important structures, including the spleen, left kidney, part of the pancreas, stomach, colon, and the lower part of the left lung. Understanding the potential causes of pain in this area is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Key Organs in the Upper Left Abdomen

• Spleen
• Left kidney
• Pancreas (partial)
• Stomach
• Colon (partial)
• Left lung (lower part)

The complexity of this anatomical region means that pain can stem from various sources, ranging from mild digestive issues to severe medical emergencies. It’s essential to pay attention to accompanying symptoms and the nature of the pain to determine its potential cause and severity.

Cardiovascular Causes of Upper Left Abdominal Pain

Some of the most serious causes of pain in the upper left abdomen are related to the cardiovascular system. These conditions require immediate medical attention due to their potentially life-threatening nature.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries. While chest pain is the most common symptom, some people may experience pain in the upper left abdomen.

What are the key symptoms of a heart attack? Symptoms may include:

• Chest discomfort (tightness, pressure, or squeezing)
• Pain radiating to the arms, jaw, neck, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cold sweats
• Lightheadedness

If you suspect a heart attack, it’s crucial to call emergency services immediately. Every minute counts when it comes to preserving heart muscle and potentially saving a life.

Angina

Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It’s often a symptom of coronary artery disease and can sometimes be felt in the upper left abdomen.

How does angina differ from a heart attack? Unlike a heart attack, angina doesn’t typically cause permanent heart damage. However, it can be a warning sign of an increased risk of heart attack. Symptoms of angina may include:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Pain radiating to the arms, neck, jaw, shoulder, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Nausea

If you experience symptoms of angina, especially if they’re new or worsening, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the protective sac surrounding the heart. This condition can cause chest pain that may extend to the upper left abdomen.

What are the different types of pericarditis? There are five types, categorized by duration:

1. Acute: Symptoms last less than 3 weeks
2. Incessant: Continuous symptoms lasting 4 to 6 weeks
3. Recurrent: Symptoms reoccur after 4 to 6 weeks without symptoms
4. Chronic: Symptoms persist for more than 3 months
5. Subacute: Develops within weeks or months of an inciting event

Symptoms of pericarditis may include sharp chest pain that worsens when lying down or breathing deeply, fever, and weakness. If you suspect pericarditis, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Gastrointestinal Causes of Upper Left Abdominal Pain

Many cases of upper left abdominal pain are related to the digestive system. While often less serious than cardiovascular causes, these conditions can still significantly impact quality of life and may require medical attention.

Trapped Gas

Trapped gas occurs when gas bubbles in the digestive tract are unable to move freely, causing discomfort and pain. This can sometimes be felt in the upper left abdomen.

How can you relieve trapped gas? Some strategies include:

• Walking or light exercise
• Massaging the abdomen
• Taking over-the-counter gas relief medications
• Avoiding gas-producing foods
• Eating slowly and avoiding carbonated beverages

While trapped gas is usually not serious, persistent or severe pain should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out other conditions.

Constipation

Constipation, defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week or difficulty passing stools, can cause discomfort and pain throughout the abdomen, including the upper left region.

What are effective ways to prevent constipation? Consider these strategies:

• Increasing fiber intake
• Staying well-hydrated
• Regular exercise
• Establishing a consistent bathroom routine
• Using laxatives or stool softeners as advised by a healthcare provider

If constipation is chronic or accompanied by severe pain, blood in the stool, or unexplained weight loss, consult a doctor for further evaluation.

Heartburn and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. When this occurs frequently, it may be diagnosed as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

How can you differentiate between occasional heartburn and GERD? GERD is typically diagnosed when heartburn occurs more than twice a week and is accompanied by other symptoms such as:

• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Difficulty swallowing
• Chronic cough
• Chest pain
• Disrupted sleep

Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down soon after eating, can help manage both heartburn and GERD. For persistent symptoms, medical treatment may be necessary.

Inflammatory Bowel Conditions Causing Upper Left Abdominal Pain

Chronic inflammatory conditions of the digestive system can also manifest as pain in the upper left abdomen. These conditions require ongoing medical management and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a common disorder affecting the large intestine. It can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain that may be felt in the upper left quadrant.

What are the hallmark symptoms of IBS? Common signs include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating
• Gas
• Diarrhea or constipation (or alternating between the two)
• Mucus in the stool

IBS is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. Dietary changes, stress reduction techniques, and medications can help control symptoms. If you suspect you have IBS, consult with a gastroenterologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is an umbrella term for disorders that involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

How do Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis differ? While both conditions involve inflammation of the digestive tract, they affect different areas:

• Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive tract from mouth to anus
• Ulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and rectum

Symptoms of IBD may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and rectal bleeding. If you experience these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen over time, it’s important to seek medical attention. IBD requires ongoing medical management to control inflammation and prevent complications.

Kidney and Pancreatic Conditions Associated with Upper Left Abdominal Pain

The left kidney and part of the pancreas are located in the upper left abdomen. Conditions affecting these organs can cause pain in this region.

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain as they move through the urinary tract.

What are the signs that you may have kidney stones? Common symptoms include:

• Severe pain in the side and back, below the ribs
• Pain that radiates to the lower abdomen and groin
• Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
• Pain or burning sensation while urinating
• Pink, red, or brown urine
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Nausea and vomiting

If you suspect you have kidney stones, especially if accompanied by fever, chills, or difficulty urinating, seek medical attention. Treatment depends on the size and location of the stones and may range from pain management and increased fluid intake to medical procedures for stone removal.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain. There are two types: acute pancreatitis, which occurs suddenly and lasts for days, and chronic pancreatitis, which develops over many years.

How do the symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis differ? While both can cause upper abdominal pain, other symptoms may vary:

• Acute pancreatitis:
  • Sudden, severe upper abdominal pain
  • Pain that radiates to your back
  • Fever
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Tender, swollen abdomen
• Chronic pancreatitis:
  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Oily, smelly stools (steatorrhea)

Both forms of pancreatitis can be serious and require medical attention. If you experience symptoms of pancreatitis, especially severe abdominal pain, seek immediate medical care.

Respiratory Conditions Causing Upper Left Abdominal Pain

Sometimes, conditions affecting the lungs can manifest as pain in the upper left abdomen. This is due to the proximity of the lower part of the left lung to this area.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs. It can be caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

What are the key symptoms of pneumonia? Common signs include:

• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Cough, which may produce phlegm
• Fatigue
• Fever, sweating, and shaking chills
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Pneumonia can range from mild to life-threatening, especially in older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems. If you suspect pneumonia, especially if you have difficulty breathing or a high fever, seek medical attention promptly.

Pleurisy

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is inflammation of the pleura, the double-layered membrane that surrounds the lungs. This condition can cause sharp chest pain that worsens during breathing.

How does pleurisy pain differ from other types of chest pain? Pleurisy pain has some distinct characteristics:

• Sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with breathing, coughing, or sneezing
• Pain that may extend to the shoulder or back
• Pain that worsens when you move or press on the affected area
• Shortness of breath

Pleurisy can be caused by various conditions, including viral infections, pneumonia, and autoimmune disorders. If you experience symptoms of pleurisy, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Upper Left Abdominal Pain

While many causes of upper left abdominal pain are not life-threatening, some conditions require immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize the signs that indicate a potentially serious situation.

When should you call emergency services for upper left abdominal pain? Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Chest pain or pressure, especially if it radiates to the arm, neck, or jaw
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Vomiting blood or passing bloody stools
• Abdominal pain accompanied by high fever (over 103°F or 39.4°C)
• Signs of severe dehydration, such as extreme thirst, dark urine, or dizziness
• Abdominal pain during pregnancy

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If you’re unsure about the severity of your symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

Understanding the potential causes of upper left abdominal pain and recognizing when to seek medical attention can help ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions. While this guide provides an overview of common causes, it’s not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Upper Left Abdominal Pain Under Ribs: Symptoms and 18 Causes

Pain in your upper left abdomen under your ribs can have a variety of causes. There are several important organs in this area, including the: spleen, kidney, pancreas, stomach, colon, and lung. Life-threatening causes include heart attack.

Pain in your upper left abdomen under your ribs can have a variety of causes. Read on to find out the possible causes and symptoms of this type of pain and what you should do.

Heart attack (myocardial infarction)

If you suspect you may be having a heart attack or another medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

One of the most common symptoms of a heart attack is tightness, pain, aching, pressure, or squeezing in your chest or arms. This may spread to your jaw, back, or neck.

You may have all or just one or two of these symptoms, but if you experience any of these heart attack warning signs and think you may be having a heart attack, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for heart attack.

Angina (chest pain)

Angina occurs when the blood traveling to your heart doesn’t contain enough oxygen. This may cause tightening or pain in your chest, jaw, back, shoulders, and arms.

Angina isn’t a disease of the heart. Rather, it’s a symptom of a possible undiagnosed heart issue such as coronary heart disease or coronary microvascular disease.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for angina.

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is caused by the swelling of the membrane around your heart. This membrane, which also becomes irritated, is called the pericardium.

There are five types of pericarditis. The type is determined by how long the symptoms last. These five types are:

• Acute: Symptoms last less than 3 weeks.
• Incessant: Symptoms are continuous and last 4 to 6 weeks.
• Recurrent: Symptoms reoccur 4 to 6 weeks later with no symptoms between the prior episode.
• Chronic: Symptoms last longer than 3 months.
• Subacute: develops within weeks or months of an inciting event such as infection or trauma.

The symptoms vary slightly for each type. Learn more about symptoms and treatment for pericarditis.

Trapped gas

Trapped gas occurs when gas is slow or not able to move through your digestive tract. It can be caused by food or digestive conditions. The symptoms of trapped gas include pain and bloating.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for abdominal bloating and gas.

Constipation

Constipation occurs when you have fewer than three bowel movements per week or have stools that are hard and difficult to pass.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for constipation.

Heartburn

Heartburn is a common condition that involves mild to severe pain in the chest, which is known as acid reflux. When this feeling is more severe, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which affects about 20% of people in the United States.

Heartburn usually occurs after eating. It typically happens when acid comes back up from the stomach into the esophagus. This causes a burning sensation and discomfort in your chest.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for heartburn.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly called acid reflux, is a condition that occurs when you experience heartburn more than two times each week.

The symptoms of GERD may also include acid reflux, heartburn, and cough.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for GERD.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition involving a group of intestinal symptoms that typically occur together.

The symptoms vary in severity and duration from person to person. Symptoms include diarrhea or constipation and bloating.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for IBS.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes any disorder that causes inflammation in your digestive tract.

The most common of these conditions is ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for IBD.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones happen when waste builds up in your kidneys and sticks together. This is due to not enough water passing through. Common symptoms of kidney stones include sharp pain, vomiting, and nausea.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for kidney stones.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis occurs when your pancreas is inflamed. There are two types of pancreatitis: acute and chronic. The symptoms vary for each one.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for pancreatitis.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an infection that occurs in one or both of your lungs. It can have various causes, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for pneumonia.

Pleurisy

Pleurisy is an inflammation of the membrane around your lungs, as well as on the inside of your chest wall. Symptoms of pleurisy may include chest pain, fever, and cough.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for pleurisy

Collapsed lung (pneumothorax)

A collapsed lung can occur when air gets in the space between the lung and the chest wall.

As the air expands, it pushes against the lung, and eventually, the lung may collapse. The pressure from this trapped air can also make it difficult to take in a full breath.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for a collapsed lung.

Costochondritis

Costochondritis occurs when the cartilage that connects your rib cage to your breastbone becomes inflamed. It can have symptoms that are similar to a heart attack.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for costochondritis.

Broken ribs

Broken ribs are normally caused by a severe or traumatic injury. However, if you have osteoporosis or another condition that affects your bones, you can get a broken rib from a minor injury.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for broken ribs.

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection of your heart’s inner lining. The symptoms of endocarditis include fever, fatigue, and heart failure.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for endocarditis.

Appendicitis

Appendicitis occurs when your appendix is inflamed.

Although the appendix isn’t located in the upper left abdomen, in rare cases, it can cause pain in the area in rare cases.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for appendicitis.

Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)

Your spleen is located in the left upper part of your abdomen, An enlarged spleen can be caused by a number of diseases and conditions.

Infections are one of the most common causes of an enlarged spleen.

Problems with your liver, such as cirrhosis and cystic fibrosis, can also cause an enlarged spleen.

Learn more about symptoms and treatment for an enlarged spleen.

What organ is in your upper left abdomen?

There are several important organs in this area, including the:

• spleen
• kidney
• pancreas
• stomach
• colon
• lung

Although the heart isn’t in the upper left abdomen, conditions that affect the heart can pain in this area.

When should I worry about upper left abdominal pain?

If your symptoms include any of the life threatening symptoms mentioned in this article, you should call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.

As you can see, the cause of upper left abdominal pain varies significantly. It can be caused by something as minor as heartburn, or it could be a sign of a heart attack, for example.

If your pain is new, persistent, and severe, you should visit your doctor. If your symptoms feel like a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

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Rib Pain: Causes, Diagnoses, & Treatments

The ribs protect some of your body’s most important organs inside your chest—including your heart and lungs. As a cardiologist, I focus on this area of the body and I understand how complex it can be to distinguish between all the vital systems that converge around the ribs when pain appears.

What Causes Rib Pain?

There are 12 ribs on each side of your chest, and they run from your spine in the back to your sternum, or breast bone, in the front. They are connected to your breast bone by cartilage, which is a strong but flexible tissue that allows the rib cage to expand during breathing. Muscles called intercostal muscles run between adjacent ribs and help move the chest wall, especially during breathing. Pain in your rib cage can come from any of these components. If you’re experiencing pain between or around your ribs, paying close attention to your symptoms can help you identify the cause.

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Symptoms to Watch For

Since there are a variety of causes that can lead to pain in your ribs, it can be helpful to chat with a doctor about any other symptoms you’re experiencing. These symptoms can be clues to what’s causing your pain.

The following are just some of the symptoms that often appear with pain in the ribs:

• Skin changes outside the ribs, like bruising
• Pain with breathing, coughing, or sneezing
• Pain when pressing on the area
• Difficulty breathing

When you use the K Health app, we’ll ask you about many symptoms related to your pain in order to get a full picture of what’s going on with your health. Here are the most common symptoms our users reported experiencing with their rib cage pain:

• Flank pain
• Shoulder pain
• Shortness of breath
• Shoulder blade pain

Rib Pain from Coughing

If your ribs hurt when you cough or sneeze, it could be because coughing causes repeated movement of your intercostal muscles, as well as other muscles like the muscles in your abdomen. When you’ve got rib pain from coughing too much, this repeated movement, particularly if it’s frequent and forceful, could result in a pulled muscle causing pain or sore ribs. A cold can also cause pleuritis, which is inflammation of the lining of your lungs and the inner aspect of your chest wall (called pleura).

I hear from many users who complain of cough, but a little less than 1% also experience pain in their ribs with coughing. According to data from over 8,000 health dialogues within the K Health app, women aged 26-55 are 18% more likely to report this type of pain with coughing compared to men of the same age. So while it’s relatively rare, it is more common among women.

Possible Conditions Causing Rib Cage Pain

Our app works by showing you how doctors have diagnosed symptoms like rib cage pain in people like you in the past. But since we’ve had over 8,000 chats with users who reported pain in their ribs, we took a look at the conditions most commonly associated with this symptom.

Here’s what you need to know about these conditions:

• Injuries: Musculoskeletal chest pain can be caused by trauma or injury to the ribs, intercostal muscles, or skin and other tissues overlying the ribs. This is very common. Costochondritis, or inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breast bone, is another musculoskeletal cause of rib pain.
• Infections: Infections including upper respiratory infection, bronchitis, or pneumonia can also cause pain in your ribs. In this case, the pain may be caused by the infection itself, a pulled rib muscle from coughing, or by pleuritis, or inflammation of your pleura, the inside chest wall. Other causes of pleuritis include autoimmune disorders, certain medications, or injury to your ribs or adjacent structures.

Other Less Common Conditions

• Pulmonary embolism: A pulmonary embolism is a dangerous condition and a medical emergency, in which a blood clot gets lodged in the arteries that supply the lungs.
• Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a condition associated with musculoskeletal pain in different parts of your body, as well as fatigue and mood complaints.
• Shingles: Shingles is caused by a viral infection (the same one that causes chicken pox) that results in a painful rash, as well as other symptoms.

Other causes may include a sprain in the muscles of your neck (cervical sprain) or inflammation in your stomach (peptic ulcer disease), parts of your body which are located nearby. Rib or chest pain is also commonly associated with mood disorders, like anxiety. Lung cancer may also cause rib cage pain, although it is a less common cause.

How to Address Your Rib Pain and Possible Treatments

Your rib cage is a collection of bones and tissues, and any of these components can cause rib pain, so it’s important to explore the cause. Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can help with pain. If your pain is caused by cough, you can try a cough suppressant. While I always recommend a personal assessment, here are the most common ways people address their pain:

• Speak to a primary care doctor: Most people with rib cage pain are evaluated by a primary care doctor, who will ask them questions, examine them, and order any appropriate tests, like an x-ray of the ribs.
• Take over-the-counter painkillers: Try taking anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• Try a cough suppressant: If your pain is associated with a cough, you could try a cough suppressant, such as dextromethorphan (Robitussin) to give your ribs a rest from the coughing motion.
• Watch for serious symptoms: Rib or chest pain may be a sign of a serious health issue, so it’s important to seek care if you have severe pain, especially if associated with other symptoms like difficulty breathing, fainting, irregular heartbeat, or profuse sweating.

Prevention Tips

Here are some things you can do to avoid or minimize pain in your ribs:

• Protect your rib cage while it’s injured or hurting. The ribs protect some of your most vital organs, and you want to avoid any movements that could make your pain worse.
• If you have a cold with a bad cough, try taking a cough suppressant like dextromethorphan and an anti-inflammatory agent like ibuprofen.

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How K Health Can Help

Did you know you can access online urgent care with K Health?

Check your symptoms, explore conditions and treatments, and if needed, text with a healthcare provider in minutes.  

K Health’s AI-powered app is HIPAA compliant and is based on 20 years of clinical data.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

Pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

Pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium: the causes of occurrence, in what diseases it occurs, diagnosis and methods of treatment.

Definition

The left hypochondrium is called the region of the anterior abdominal wall, located below the left costal arch. To understand the causes of the development of pain in the left hypochondrium, it is necessary to know which organs are projected onto the region of the anterior abdominal wall.

Stomach – a section of the gastrointestinal tract, which is a muscular bag. Here gastric juice is produced, the main components of which are hydrochloric acid, pepsin (an enzyme that breaks down proteins) and mucin (mucus that protects the walls of the stomach from the aggressive effects of hydrochloric acid). Once in the stomach, protein food undergoes denaturation (a process of structural change that can be represented as a change in egg white during heat treatment – thickening, as a result of which the proteins become insoluble in water) due to the presence of hydrochloric acid, and the denatured protein, in turn, is digested under action of pepsin. From the stomach, food enters the duodenum, where digestion continues.

The spleen is an organ of the immune system. The content of lymphocytes in the spleen reaches 85% of the total number of cells, which is almost 25% of all lymphocytes in the body. About 50% of spleen lymphocytes are represented by B-cells – humoral immunity depends on them. Thus, it is the spleen, along with the lymph nodes, that is the organ that provides humoral immunity. In addition, the destruction of old and abnormal red blood cells and platelets occurs in the spleen, which contributes to the renewal of the cellular composition of the blood.

In newborns, in addition to the stomach and spleen, the left lobe of the liver can be projected into the region of the left hypochondrium. This is due to the fact that the liver occupies almost the entire epigastrium in infants.

Varieties of pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

Pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium can be acute or chronic. Allocate pain pulling, dull, arching, spastic, “dagger”, shooting.

Depending on the presence of a provoking factor, pain can be spontaneous, or it can develop during meals or as a result of hunger, physical activity, or emotional stress.

According to the mechanism of development, spastic, distension, peritoneal and vascular pains are distinguished.

Possible causes of pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

The cause of pain is irritation of pain receptors located in the abdominal organs, in the peritoneum (the serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity from the inside and passing to the abdominal organs), in the abdominal wall. Spasmodic pain occurs due to uncontrolled persistent tension of the smooth muscles of the wall of a hollow organ, such as the stomach.

Muscle spasm can be triggered by the impact of the aggressive environment of gastric contents on the wall of the organ, the activation of the structures of the autonomic nervous system.

The reason for the development of distension pain is the excessive stretching of the hollow organ from the inside by its contents, which can happen when you eat too much food or if the evacuation of the contents from the stomach is disturbed due to dysmotility or any mechanical obstruction in the outlet section of the stomach.

Peritoneal pain due to irritation of the peritoneum. The peritoneum is a thin film that covers the walls of the abdominal cavity from the inside and the organs located in it (some completely, others from several sides). As a result of the inflammatory process, local peritonitis develops in the wall of the organ – inflammation of the peritoneum, which is accompanied by pain.

Finally, the cause of vascular pain is cell death due to insufficient blood flow in any organ. Violation of blood flow is most often caused by blockage of a vessel (artery or vein) by a blood clot (thrombus).

Diseases leading to pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

One of the most common causes of pain in the left hypochondrium is the pathology of the stomach. Gastritis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the stomach from the inside. Gastritis may be associated with the entry of any aggressive chemicals into the stomach, with autoimmune inflammation, but most often the disease is associated with an infection caused by Helicobacter pylori .

The bacterium Helicobacter pylori , being present in the body for a long time, can also lead to more formidable diseases – peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, and in some cases – to a tumor lesion of the stomach.

Heaviness and pain in the left hypochondrium, often in combination with pain behind the sternum, may indicate the presence of gastroesophageal reflux (reflux of gastric contents back into the overlying esophagus).

Violation of the evacuation of food from the stomach is more common in children in the first year of life due to pylorospasm and pyloric stenosis (transient or permanent organic obstruction of the pyloric – outlet – section of the stomach). In adults, this condition can be caused by neoplasms that become a mechanical obstacle to food in both the stomach and intestines.

Among the pathological conditions of the spleen, which can lead to pain in the left hypochondrium, it is worth highlighting its enlargement (splenomegaly) and impaired blood supply (spleen infarction).

Splenomegaly develops in various infectious diseases, diseases of the blood system, incl. leukemia, as well as cirrhosis of the liver. The cause of infarction of the spleen is thrombosis of its vessels, which occurs against the background of conditions characterized by increased blood clotting. Separately, it is worth mentioning traumatic ruptures of the spleen , which also lead to the development of pain, but the doctor will be primarily concerned about massive life-threatening intra-abdominal bleeding from the damaged organ.

It is important to remember that due to the proximity of the heart to this area, pain in the left hypochondrium may develop due to damage to the heart muscle – myocardial infarction .

Which doctors should be contacted for pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

If pain and a feeling of heaviness appear in the region of the left hypochondrium, you should contact

therapist

or

pediatrician

. After a survey, clinical examination and the appointment of a number of laboratory and instrumental studies, the patient can be referred to narrow specialists –

gastroenterologist

, hematologist, nutritionist.

It should be remembered that acute intense pain in the left hypochondrium, especially in the presence of a previous injury or peptic ulcer, may be a symptom of acute surgical pathology.

In this case, an emergency consultation is indicated.

surgeon

or call an ambulance.

Diagnostics and examinations for pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

Identification of the cause of pain and heaviness in the region of the left hypochondrium is based on the data of an objective medical examination and auxiliary data of laboratory and instrumental studies. These include:

• a clinical blood test with the determination of the leukocyte formula, necessary to exclude anemia, blood diseases, and inflammatory processes in the body;

What to do if there is pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

A condition when the patient experiences pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium requires medical attention. Until the diagnosis is established, it is recommended to follow a diet that should include mechanically (mashed potatoes, soufflé), chemically (avoid overly spicy, salty, spicy foods) and thermally sparing food.

In the event of the development of an acute pain syndrome (often described by the patient as a “dagger” pain) of severe intensity, an ambulance should be called immediately to transport the patient to the nearest surgical hospital.

Treatment for pain and heaviness in the left hypochondrium

Treatment is aimed at suppressing the underlying pathological process. In the case of diseases of the stomach, a fairly strict diet with the obligatory observance of the diet is extremely important. If the acidity of gastric juice is increased, drugs are used that suppress the production of hydrochloric acid and protect the gastric mucosa. If infection Helicobacter pylori is detected, the patient is prescribed antimicrobial therapy. In case of perforation of the stomach, rupture of the spleen, emergency surgical intervention is required.

Sources:

1. Strutynsky A.V., Baranov A.P., Roitberg G.E., Gaponenkov Yu.P. Fundamentals of semiotics of diseases of internal organs (+ DVD-ROM)
2. Clinical guidelines of the Russian Gastroenterological Association for the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in adults / ed. V.T. Ivashkina, I. V. Maeva, T.L. Lapina and others // Russian Journal of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Coloproctology. T. 28, No. 1, 2018.
3. Chulkova S.V., Stilidi I.S., Glukhov E.V., Grivtsova L.Yu., Nered S.N., Tupitsyn N.N. The spleen is a peripheral organ of the immune system. Effect of splenectomy on immune status. Bulletin of RONTS im. N.N. Blokhin RAMS. T. 25, No. 1-2, 2014. S. 21-25.

IMPORTANT!

The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. In case of pain or other exacerbation of the disease, only the attending physician should prescribe diagnostic tests. For diagnosis and proper treatment, you should contact your doctor.
For a correct assessment of the results of your analyzes in dynamics, it is preferable to do studies in the same laboratory, since different laboratories may use different research methods and units of measurement to perform the same analyzes.

Intercostal neuralgia: why it occurs and how to treat

If there is a sharp prick in the side, there is severe pain, which makes it difficult to take a deep breath, many people remember such a diagnosis as intercostal neuralgia. It is important to distinguish this common problem from dangerous heart disease.

How it hurts intercostal neuralgia

Pathology got its name due to the fact that it is the costal nerves that are infringed. Infringement can occur both directly between the ribs and in the region of the thoracic spine – and this happens quite often. Many people know firsthand how intercostal neuralgia manifests itself. The most common symptoms of intercostal neuralgia are

• severe pain in the ribs, in the side
• pain may be stabbing or burning, paroxysmal, constant
• pain in intercostal neuralgia worse on inspiration; sometimes it is impossible to take a deep breath or yawn
• during an attack of intercostal neuralgia, coughing or sneezing is painful – any muscle tension leads to additional compression or irritation of the pinched nerve, which causes increased pain
• pain localized in the chest, between the ribs, often at the level of the navel
• can radiate to the shoulder blade, shoulder, arm, mimic heart pain
• during an attack of intercostal neuralgia, a person can reflexively take the least painful position and remain in it until the pain decreases
• if you try to feel the painful place between the ribs, it can be very sensitive on palpation or vice versa, with reduced sensitivity, as if numb

Symptoms of intercostal neuralgia on the right or left may occur depending on which side the nerve ending is pinched or irritated.

Intercostal neuralgia: causes and consequences

Direct pain causes pinching or irritation of the nerve ending. But why is the nerve being pinched or irritated? Usually, its compression occurs during displacement, deformation, and violation of the structure of the vertebrae. And this most often occurs with osteochondrosis – one of the most common diseases. Changes characteristic of osteochondrosis occur in the body of each person, in some the deformation of the spine and its structures is quite significant, which causes compression of the endings of the intercostal nerves.

Intercostal neuralgia can occur against the background of an infectious or inflammatory disease, as well as as a result of muscle spasm. It can be caused, among other things, by changes in the spine.

The treatment of intercostal neuralgia involves, first of all, the treatment of pathology that causes pinching, compression or irritation of the nerve. Since this is predominantly osteochondrosis, methods are recommended that help slow down the processes of deformation of the vertebrae and discs, including moderate physical activity. They make it possible to strengthen the muscular corset and improve the nutrition of the spine, which makes it possible to avoid significant changes in the structures of the spinal column and reduce the likelihood of damage to nerve endings.

If there are symptoms of intercostal neuralgia, painkillers are prescribed, and not only traditional, but also the so-called “new analgesics” – B vitamins, which in certain combinations and doses have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. In particular, it is known that vitamins B1 and B6 have an analgesic effect. They are characterized by neuroprotective characteristics, which means that vitamins of this group can improve the conduction of nerve impulses, help restore the sheaths of nerve fibers, and reduce pain and inflammation. Vitamin B1 in a fat-soluble form, benfotiamine, has a more pronounced effect. It, in combination with vitamin B6, is contained in the Milgamma tablet preparation, which is prescribed for various diseases of the spine associated with damage to nerve endings, including Milgamma tablets are included in the complex treatment of intercostal neuralgia.